Before choosing the twelve apostles, Jesus 'went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.' The Greek 'dianyktereō' (δι αν υκτερεύω, continue through the night) emphasizes extended, intensive prayer. Jesus consistently prayed before major decisions and events, modeling dependence on the Father. Choosing apostles—men who would lead the church—required divine wisdom. All-night prayer demonstrates the seriousness of apostolic selection and teaches that crucial decisions demand extended, focused communion with God.
Historical Context
Mountains provided solitude for prayer away from crowds. Jesus regularly retreated to isolated places for prayer (Luke 5:16, 9:18, 9:28). The twelve apostles would become foundation stones of the church (Ephesians 2:20), making their selection critically important. Jesus' prayer-saturated life contrasts with modern activism that prioritizes action over communion with God. First-century rabbis gathered disciples, but Jesus' apostolic selection followed intense prayer, showing these men were divinely chosen, not merely recruited.
Questions for Reflection
What does Jesus' all-night prayer before choosing apostles teach about seeking God's wisdom for important decisions?
How does Jesus' pattern of extended prayer challenge modern ministry that prioritizes activity over communion with God?
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Analysis & Commentary
Before choosing the twelve apostles, Jesus 'went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.' The Greek 'dianyktereō' (δι αν υκτερεύω, continue through the night) emphasizes extended, intensive prayer. Jesus consistently prayed before major decisions and events, modeling dependence on the Father. Choosing apostles—men who would lead the church—required divine wisdom. All-night prayer demonstrates the seriousness of apostolic selection and teaches that crucial decisions demand extended, focused communion with God.